Summary
This case involves a Registered Physician Assistant (R.P.A.) who entered into a consent agreement following charges of fraudulent practice for inappropriately issuing prescriptions for controlled substances for herself. The practitioner did not contest the charges and agreed to a two-year stayed suspension followed by three years of probation. The case demonstrates the Board’s oversight of all licensed medical professionals, not just physicians, and its enforcement of standards regarding controlled substance prescribing.
Case Analysis
Effective Date: May 13, 2011
Type of Doctor: Registered Physician Assistant (R.P.A.)
Disposition Type: Consent Order – Two-year stayed suspension with three years of probation
How many total charges? One specification
What specifications of charges were alleged? First Specification: Fraudulent Practice (N.Y. Educ. Law § 6530(2)) – practicing the profession fraudulently by knowingly and with intent to mislead, inappropriately issuing prescriptions for controlled substances for herself
How many patients were involved in each charge? Not applicable – the practitioner was self-prescribing controlled substances
Which charges was the licensee guilty of (either via hearing or negotiated consent)? The practitioner did not contest the First Specification (Fraudulent Practice) in full satisfaction of the charges
Which charges was the licensee not guilty of? Not applicable – only one charge was filed
Outcome/Penalties (specific to this case):
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- Two-year stayed suspension of license to practice as a physician assistant
- Three years of probation following the suspension period, with terms including:
- Prohibition from self-treating or self-prescribing any medications (controlled or non-controlled)
- Required continuing education in medical ethics within first 30 days of probation
- Compliance with all professional standards and laws
- Regular reporting to OPMC
- Full cooperation with OPMC oversight
- Maintenance of active registration
- Adherence to infection control practices
- Complete and legible medical records
- Enrollment in physician health program (CPH) if required